Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English

Recommended previous knowledge

Bachelor's course in social science methodology, as well as basic courses in information systems.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students should:

  • know and be able to discuss current research topics within information systems (IS) or cybersecurity.
  • be able to apply a systematic method for writing a literature review of a specific topic.
  • design a scientific report that summarizes and concludes the results from a literature review related to a selected topic.
  • suggest a theoretical perspective, framework or model and argue for why this choice is appropriate for designing and conducting a research study.
  • present potential practical and theoretical contributions for a planned research project.

Contents

The course prepares the student for the master thesis and provides possibilities for specialization on a chosen topic within IS or cybersecurity. It will focus on current research issues and the methodology for conducting literature review studies. Students are introduced to various topics and issues within the IS and/or cybersecurity field that can be relevant focus areas in a master thesis. Research ethics and guidelines for how to apply ethics in IS research studies are part of the course. During the course, students ideally work with a comprehensive literature review which can be related to the theme of their forthcoming thesis. Students can choose topics from a wide range of relevant areas within IS or cybersecurity. Topics may be connected to research activities and on-going projects in research centers at the university, such as Centre for Integrated Emergency Management, Centre for eHealth and Centre for Digital Transformation.

Teaching and learning methods

The course is organized in working seminars. Part of the teaching is mandatory; more detailed information will be given in Canvas at the start of the semester. The course will to some extent be integrated with IS-404 Research Methods in IS, so it is preferable to follow IS-420 and IS-404 at the same time. Expected working hours are 270 hours.

Examination requirements

Approved mandatory presentations and hand-ins in addition to obligatory participation in lectures and discussions. Details are given in Canvas at the start of the semester.

Examinations

Portfolio examination either in groups of two students or individually, counting 100% of the grade. The portfolio will consist of both group assignments and individual assignments when students take this exam as a group. Individual letter grades A-F. There is no postponed examination in this course.

Student evaluation

The person responsible for the course decides, in cooperation with student representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end of course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.

Offered as a free-standing course

No.

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
IS-504 – Current Topics and Research Areas in Information System Security. 7.5
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 1:39:12 PM